Russell Hartman Comic Reviews

Joshua Hixson and Roman Stevens are the heroes of this issue, as their shadow-soaked art is a staple of what makes it all work. The lore we learn about the Amadeus Arkham of the Absolute Universe, including his family, his original dream, and his mission to help those pushed to the bottom of the barrel by society, makes this story all the more tragic. Snyder continues to add to his resume, which is worthy of a hall-of-fame comic book writer. A terrifying atmosphere, fantastically written characters, and an intriguing look at the future create a never-ending sense of dread. These elements make Absolute Batman: Ark M Special #1 not only one of the best issues of the Absolute Universe, but a release that ranks among what will be the best single issues of 2026. You can take that to the bank. Next up for Absolute Batman is the second part of his first meeting with the Princess of Hell, Wonder Woman. Issue 16 cannot get here fast enough

ConclusionWaid’s look into the early life of Superman has been a joy to read since this era began in June and I look forward to seeing more adventures with Superboy as the months go on here. With some great art, some heartfelt moments and the big action we’ve all come to expect in a Superman story, I can gladly recommend this issue to any comic fan looking to jump back into the life of the Man of… sorry Boy of Tomorrow.

To close out here, Waid, Patridge, and Plascencia have proven to be a force during their run on Action Comics, and I can’t wait to see more of their stories and where Superboy’s early journeys are going to take him. Waid can write action-packed, super-powered-filled romps, but he can also nail the emotional beats, with all of it gloriously depicted by Patridge and Plascencia.

I am very intrigued to see where the plot threads of this book are going to go. From the big dark secret of the father of Lana, to Clark having to figure out a different way to help General Lane, and finally Pete discovering the secret of his best friend — Action Comics has many threads that are going to be interesting to follow as the book continues. This was yet another solid issue in the run of Mark Waid. With the landmark issue #1,100 on the horizon, it will be very fun to see where all these stories are going to go.

Action Comics #1095 was another really solid entry in Mark Waid’s run, and I’m enjoying this flashback to Superboy’s early days in Smallville more than I thought I would. Action Comics has been more than a welcome counterpart to the currently DC-KO-focused main Superman title, and this slice of Smallville of yesteryear, every month, gives these two titles an interesting dichotomy. We don’t see Pete Ross much in modern-day Superman tales, but maybe this issue can be the start of seeing him featured more often. He’s an underutilized character in the Superman mythos. Waid’s storytelling prowess, combined with Patricio Delpeche’s classic art style, makes for a strong, Pete Ross-focused issue that shows that the bonds of friendship are some of the most important relationships in our lives.

Mark Waid continues his great run on Action Comics with a time-bending issue that sees Superboy continue on his path to becoming the Superman we all know he’s going to be one day. We get some great plot developments that hint at a wild next few issues and an art team who is firing on all cylinders. With Action Comics #1100 quickly approaching, I’m very excited to see the continuing adventures of Superboy written by one of comic’s greatest writers.

Mark Waid’s run continues with another stellar issue that takes a look at a time when Superboy discovers that the DC Universe is much larger and stranger than he had ever believed. Skylar Patridge continues her fantastic run with some of her best Action Comics art so far and Ivan Plascencia’s colors pop on every page. This issue featured some great character moments, as well as superb battles and I can’t wait to see what issue #1098 has in store. With Action Comics now only two issues away from #1100, you know we're in for something special.

With an emotional retelling of baby Kal-El landing on Earth combined with a huge battle that has possible timeline altering consequences, Action Comics #1098 is another fantastic issue in what has been a great run. Mark Waid’s run has been full of great character moments and thrilling action supported by some dynamic art and this issue is no different. Skylar Patridge and Patricio Delpeche each get to showcase their talents and the contrasting art styles between certain sequences are great to view. Action Comics #1100 is almost upon us and I can’t wait to see what this creative team has in store.

This was an awesome introduction to this new arc and the cliffhanger ending has me scratching and clawing for next month’s issue already. Waid is at the top of his game and with the incredible art team behind him I expect this book to keep reaching new heights as we race towards issue #50 and beyond.

Batman/Superman: World’s Finest continues to be one of DC’s best titles, and even if the ending of this issue wasn’t my cup of tea, I’m still intrigued to see what fresh spin Waid can put on it. With the landmark Issue #50 on the horizon, it will be interesting to see just where this all goes for the Son of Krypton and the Bat of Gotham.

Batman/Superman: World’s Finest #47 is a great conclusion to the arc between the Merger and Fusion. With the writing prowess of Mark Waid combined with a great art team, the biggest moments of the issue have a great impact. With three issues to go until the monumental fiftieth issue of the series and a great creative team in place, the future of Batman/Superman: World’s Finest could not be in better hands. I cannot wait to see more of these Silver Age-type adventures each month. We should keep Waid on this book forever.

World’s Finest #50 is a celebration of everything that makes this book click. Superman and Batman could not be in better hands with Mark Waid and the return of Dan Mora lives up to all the hype. Both of the stories contained within this issue are sure to delight longtime fans of the title and new fans who are just jumping on. It’s been an awesome 50 issues so far and I can’t wait to see what the next 50 have in store. If you haven’t been reading World’s Finest, now is the time to.

Bizarro: Year None #1 is a great introduction to what is sure to be one of the most unique takes on the title character. The choice to make Jimmy Olsen and Perry White co-leads of this series was a fantastic choice from the creative team and the overarching mystery of who this Bizarro really is very intriguing. Smith and Carrasco’s dialogue is a treat to read and Pitarra and Garland’s unique art compliments the story really well. The next three issues of this limited series seem like they’re going to be an absolute blast and if this series isn’t already on your pull list, check it out!

Dog Tag #1 doesn’t glorify war; it takes a look behind the curtain at war’s true face. The story of World War II has been told time and time again, but writer Mark Russell and the art team of PJ Holden and JP Jordan have brought a fresh perspective to one of the most horrific events in human history. If issue #1 is any indication, the journey of soldier Tom Fuller is trending towards being one of the best World War II stories we’ve had in a long time.

Without the art of Acuña, this would still be a good story, but the way he has brought this tale to life makes this a perfect pairing between writer and artist. The art is stunning in this story and in this chapter. I cannot wait to see more of it as the first arc of the series concludes with Chapter #6 and beyond. This is a nearly perfect story written by one of the best comic authors of our time with an artist who matches the vibe of the story and nails every single panel he draws. If Escape was not on your radar before, it certainly should be now. The only thing I have left to say is: Is it February 4th yet? Because I need Chapter #6 now.

The shadowy and emotional art of Daniel Acuña is a perfect complement to the writing. The emotions the artist is able to convey just with the facial expressions are a highlight of this issue. There is clearly a lot left to tell in the story of Milton Shaw. I cannot wait to see how he will ultimately complete the mission and hopefully return home. Escape is a highlight of the comic reading for the reviewer each month, and I hope you add it to your pull list.

Godzilla: Infinity Roar #1 is an "atomic-powered" blast of an opener for the limited series. Even with its slight shortcomings, it's a fun story with great art to match. I can’t wait to see how the Marvel Universe finally takes down this massive threat to their existence.

Godzilla Infinity Roar #2 gives us moments that can only happen in a wonderful medium like comics, in an issue that soars after an uneven series beginning. Gerry Duggan’s series has taken off after a so-so first issue, and the art team brings to life every ounce of kaiju-craziness with great detail and eye-popping color choices. The battles in this issue are a feast for the eyes. Godzilla has been crossing over with a lot of different comics recently, and this issue ranks among the best of those stories. I can’t wait to see what else Duggan and the art team have in store for us readers as time goes on. What stopped this issue from being a perfect ten for me? I’ll admit I’m greedy, and I wish the fights were even longer.

Godzilla: Infinity Roar #3 features some epic battles, cosmic consequences and Godzilla-filled sequences that will make you stop and stare. IG Guara’s art and David Curiel’s colors are the stars of the show as they give the proper gravitas to Gerry Duggan’s story. Infinity Roar’s third issue is another great one and, with only two issues left, it's ramping up to what is sure to be one hell of a final battle.

Godzilla: Infinity Roar #4 is a spectacular penultimate issue in Marvel’s Kaiju-sized crossover. Gerry Duggan’s narrative has taken a dark turn with the fate of the universe now left in the hands of Doom. The art team delivers some of their finest work yet and we get a cliffhanger that will make longtime Godzilla fans jump for joy. With an epic showdown between Doom and Knull looming, the finale is shaping up to be a wild ride.

Godzilla’s Monsterpiece Theatre Presents: Romeo & Juliet and Godzilla is an uneven start in Godzilla’s new rampage through classic literature. Sean Peacock’s art is fantastic with great designs throughout the main story and Tom Scioli’s Godzilla Meets Robin Hood backup story is really cool. Unfortunately, the main story’s narrative doesn't reach the chaotic heights I hoped it would but I’m still intrigued by what lies ahead.

Hulk Smash Everything is a welcome addition to the Hulk’s long publication history and shows the reader that it’s perfectly okay to just want to see gorgeous art paired with fun storytelling. If Infernal Hulk is a dark orchestral composition, then Hulk Smash Everything is the hard rock counterpart with the guitar cranked up to 11. The Hulk has one goal in the book, to smash, and longtime Hulk fans will not be disappointed.

Hulk Smash Everything #2 is a great palette cleanser from some of the more serious stuff I have been reading week in and week out. While you are not going to find a deep story or thought-provoking themes, you will find a ramping romp through the Marvel universe that is as fun to look at as it is to read. North, Carratù, and Blee are a great creative team who are sure to have a great final three issues cooked up for us all.

North has shown he is not afraid to lean into the overall ridiculous concept of the book. Carratù, Blee, and Caramagna round out an excellent creative team that is bringing all of the wild ideas to life in the strongest issue yet. The Hulk has truly been smashing everything. If the cover for next month is anything to go on, the Marvel Universe is in a lot of trouble.

In Hulk Smash Everything #4, the consequences of the Leader’s actions are fully realized in what is a fantastic penultimate issue of this limited series run. Ryan North’s compelling story and narration are perfectly complemented by the artistic choices of Vincenzo Carratù and Federico Blee. The Hulk, with his cool new design, looks incredible every time he appears on the page, and the massive, violent moments of rage come to life in spectacular fashion. This is an issue every Hulk fan will enjoy, and I’d recommend it to any comic fan looking for a story that doesn’t take itself seriously and fully embraces how wild and wacky comics can be.

With the monster of the week filled vibe of their original run now having turned into a full on nightmare; Johnson is making his big, bloody stamp on one of Marvel’s core heroes and his second run with Hulk has me both terrified and excited for what’s to come for the Marvel Universe.

If the battle between Ngathil and the Hulk had been just a few pages longer, this issue would’ve been even better—but I still loved it all the same. With the art taking center stage, The Infernal Hulk #2 is another great entry in this current run, and this dark chapter in the Hulk’s history looks like it’s only going to get angrier.

This issue might not be for everyone with the tough topics it covers, but it's an important issue that doesn’t shy away from showing how trauma can affect someone's mental and physical health. Phillip Kennedy Johnson and his art team are rockstars, and it’s a pleasure to read The Infernal Hulk each month. Next month’s issue promises to show us what’s been happening to the Incredible Hulk locked away inside Eldest, and I can’t wait to see what happens.

Over these four issues, Johnson’s horror-fueled nightmare of an Incredible Hulk run continues to impress. The Infernal Hulk#4 is both a fantastic issue that features some of the best art in a comic this year, and a great set-up for what's to come inside the twisted Hulkscape and beyond. Just from the cover art alone, you knew this issue was set up to be an absolute banger; when all the Hulk personalities run into each other, you know mayhem is going to follow. The Infernal Hulk continues to be a highlight every single month, and I hope you’ll consider joining the ride if you haven’t already. It’s only gonna get more gruesome from here.

The Infernal Hulk #5 caps off a fantastic first half of the series. Phillip Kennedy Johnson continues to weave a terrifying, unsettling and emotional tale. Eldest continues to ascend in the rankings of all-time Hulk villains and Bruce Banner seems like he’s ready to accept his fate. This issue looked great from cover to cover and featured some fantastic artistic choices by Kevin Walker, Cam Smith and Matthew Wilson. Eldest’s fight with the One Above All was really cool to see. The parallel storylines of the Hulk, Eldest and Bruce Banner seem like they are going to converge once again and with some of the seeds that were planted in earlier issues, we are in for a wild back half of The Infernal Hulk.

While Justice League vs. Godzilla vs. Kong II #6 is not the greatest individual issue, it is clearly meant to get everyone ready for what is sure to be a wild final issue. For a series that prides itself on those massive moments depicted by incredible art, I just wish we had more of those in this one. There were some fun moments and nice surprises, but at the end of the day, it felt very much like the trailer for the seventh and final issue.

Justice League vs. Godzilla vs. Kong 2 was a sequel that didn’t quite reach the heights of the first one but this final issue truly came through like a 10th round uppercut for the knockout. This issue gave me the kaiju and superhero fight that I craved. Brian Buccellato wraps up his story with an epic final battle worthy of any of the big Monsterverse films and the art team of Christian Duce and Luis Guerrero nails it on every page.

Spider-Man/Superman #1 is a celebration of two of the most iconic superheroes of all time. Marvel’s half of the massive crossover event might not have been perfect but the highs far outweighed the lows. Superman and Spider-Man are a perfect pairing. I wasn’t around for the first time these two heroes met and I’m not sure I’ll be around for the next but all I can say is: I’m happy I was here for this one.

This was one of the most intriguing Superman stories I’ve ever read. My only real qualm is that we couldn’t get a few more issues in W. Maxwell Prince and Martin Morazzo’s version of the DC Universe. I would love to get another glimpse into their world in the future, but for any comic fan with even a remote interest in the Man of Steel, I highly recommend not only Issue #5 but this entire five-issue run. This was pure comic book goodness from beginning to end.

Chip Zdarsky is putting some interesting pieces on the board as the road to Armageddon kicks off. If this first issue of the first tie-in is anything to go on, Wolverine is going to have a huge role in things going forward. While it could have been a more welcoming number one issue, it does a good job of setting the table for what is to come.

Wolverine: Weapons of Armageddon #3 does a good job of setting up the series finale. Luca Maresca and Jesus Aburtov provide some great art once again but Chip Zdarsky’s narrative is falling a bit flat for me. The flashback sub-plot, featuring David Colton during his early days as Captain America, was a personal highlight of the issue for me. Next issue certainly has a lot riding on it as Armageddon quickly approaches.

With the landmark issue #50 and the return of Dan Mora to the World’s Finest universe on the horizon, it has never been a better time for you to jump in and check this book out if you are on the fence about it. Waid has shown he not only has a handle on Superman and Batman, but on their evil counterparts as well. I loved this issue, and you will too.